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I HOPE TO ENCOURAGE YOU TO PAUSE FOR A MOMENT,ADMIRE THE CLOUDS, CLIMB THE MOUNTAIN, GAZE AT THE STARS,TRAVEL TO THE DESTINATION YOU HAVE ALWAYS WANTED TO VISIT,OR JUST GET OUT TO EXPLORE YOUR OWN BACKYARD.

Inspired by the words of Maya Angelou’s poem, Still I Rise, I have written my own poem of the same name.

Still I Rise

You may laugh, mock, and maimWith your language of hateTwisting words, bending truthsBut still, as my sisters before meI rise.

Did you want to silence me?A woman better to be seen, not heard?I do not recognize the submission you seek My whole heart aches for a better tomorrow My voice echos a hopeful rally cry.

You may abuse, assault, harass, and shameI’ve been given many reasons to hateMy eyes wide openFace turned toward the sun like a sunflowerI choose to soak in the sunshine of love.

Does my courage offend you?As the song in my body radiates confidence, kindness, and strengthI have felt the bitter cold, bone chilling winds of winterSprings renewal will come again Change is just over the next mountain

Just as the sun rises and setsI am awakening, growing stronger each dayBecause I walk, head held highTruth pumping through my veinsAnd, again, I will rise.

To all my sisters, my brothers tooI hope you’ll comfort me, as I will for you.I riseHeed the warning of Mother nature, The wisdom of our ancestorsI riseLeaving behind the darkness of violence and fear Together, the dawning of a new way forwardRiseKeep risingI rise.